A special envoy to US President Donald Trump has proposed that Italy replace Iran at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to a report by the Financial Times on Wednesday.
The suggestion, made by US special envoy Paolo Zampolli, is reportedly aimed at repairing relations between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni after a falling out over Trump's attacks on Pope Leo XIV concerning the Iran war.
Zampolli told the Financial Times: 'I confirm I have suggested to Trump and [FIFA President Gianni] Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup. I’m an Italian native and it would be a dream to see the Azzurri at a US-hosted tournament. With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion.'
Italy missed out on World Cup qualification for the third consecutive time in March, losing 4-1 on penalties to Bosnia and Herzegovina in a playoff final. Iran, meanwhile, had stated in April that it would decide on participation only after FIFA responded to a request to relocate matches from the US to Mexico.
The White House, FIFA, the Italian Football Federation, and Iran's football federation did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The Financial Times reported that Iran issued a statement saying it was prepared for the tournament and planned to participate.
